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Licata Jewelers
Joseph Licata
by Sue LaPointe
"I
went in to buy a girlfriend a piece of jewelry, and
the sales guy knew nothing about the pieces. Instead
of him helping me, I was informing him about the jewelry.”
 Beginning
as a paper boy attending Central Catholic High School,
Joseph Licata of Licata Jewelers says his childhood
years were quite uneventful. As the product of a disciplined
Catholic education, however, Joe developed a work
ethic and skills that continue to serve him well.
“Back in those days, there was a certain amount
of discipline involved in the school,” laughed
Joe. “We were state champions in just about
everything.”
Comfortable with structure and discipline, Joe joined
the Marine Corp following high school. Joe believes
that his education at Central Catholic led to some
good opportunities in the Marines. He served for four-and-a-half
years in the Corp. Joe spent two years overseas, including
some time in Viet Nam. The time in Viet Nam challenged
him in new ways.
“Although I don’t wish that kind of experience
on anyone, I don’t regret the growth part of
it,” explained Joe. “I was honorably discharged
after I served my time, and I went on to the University
of Toledo.”
While attending the university, Joe worked a part-time
job, sometimes two. Max Davis Jewelers provided him
with his first experience in the jewelry industry,
and he was thankful for the job that was somewhat
different from other part-time jobs he had held.
During Joe’s time with the jeweler, Mr. Davis
sent him to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
in New York. There, Joe received a thorough education
in the jewelry field.
After two years of working for Mr. Davis, Joe went
into the wholesale wine business, working for a company
called Fine Wines. But it didn’t last long.
“I started to miss the jewelry business and
especially the customer relationships,” said
Joe. “I went in to buy a girlfriend a piece
of jewelry, and the sales guy knew nothing about the
pieces. Instead of him helping me, I was informing
him about the jewelry. He said, ‘I could use
someone like you!’”
Joe started working part time and eventually took
a full-time position with Osterman Jewelers. During
his more than 10 years with Osterman, he opened and
managed stores and learned much about the industry.
But the long hours began to take a toll, and Joseph
developed an interest in becoming his own boss.
“I was starting a family, and I decided owning
my own business would give me more opportunities to
spend time with my family,” explained Joe.
In August 1981, he opened Joseph Licata Jewelers,
specializing in diamonds and colored stones, placing
an emphasis on excellent customer service. Licata
Jewelers was designed to provide a total shopping
experience in a warm and sociable atmosphere. The
goal was to create an environment conducive to retail,
but, more importantly, be comfortable for customers.
Upon entering the store, the ceiling is three feet
taller than the main section of the showroom, generating
a spacious, inviting feeling.
In 1999, Joe’s son decided to join the company.
“He came to work with me one day and wouldn’t
leave,” laughed Joe “I sent him to GIA
school, and he graduated in the top of his class,
and he’s been with me ever since.”
The years brought significant growth to Joe and his
business, including some accolades, such as the American
Vision Award for Jewelry Design in 2005.
In February 2007, Joseph decided to move the business
to Levis Commons. Although they have experienced the
changes and challenges that come with relocation,
the Licata team has maintained its focus on relationships
with customers.
“There are times when every step you take forward
you take two (steps) backward,” said Joe. “We
just try to stay focused on wanting to do the right
thing for our customers—giving them excellent
value and advice as to what is the right purchase
for their needs.” JOSEPH
LICATA JEWELERS
3110 Chappel Drive
Levis Commons
Phone: 419-385-5707
Website: www.licatajewelers.com
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 Toledo
Business Review highlights the best
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